Can't Get You Out of My Train: Spinning Around Southern Belgium – Wallonia-Bound, Closer than you thought

If you're looking for a hassle-free travel experience, train travel is the way to go. You can reach stunning destinations like Mons, Namur, Dinant, and Liege within an hour's journey from Brussels. Brussels itself is just two hours away from London, making Wallonia the perfect gateway for exploring Europe.

Don't miss out on these incredible "off the beaten 'tracks'" destinations.

Train it till you make it

Travelling from London to Southern Belgium has never been easier, thanks to the seamless connections offered by Eurostar and the affordable railway network of Belgium. From historic cities to scenic wonders, Wallonia is just a train ride away.

All Aboard the Eco-Express Locomotion to Wallonia

Travelling by train is a responsible and eco-friendly choice, providing the opportunity to relax, take in the scenic views, and arrive directly at city centres. So, if you're planning a trip, why not choose the train to our region and enjoy the benefits it has to offer?

No Pain No Gain, But Go Train Go Again (Almost CO2-Free): Wallonia Beckons with Painless Travel

If you're worried about the effort that comes with travelling by train, don't be! These stunning destinations such as: Mons, Namur, Dinant and Liege are all within an hour's journey from Brussels. Brussels itself is just two hours away from London.
So go train and enjoy the painless journey.

Mons

Mons was once a European capital of culture and has managed to maintain its dynamism by providing exciting events and cultural opportunities ever since. The streets are paved, and the city centre has a medieval style with stunning architecture found in the streets that intersect the main square.

Renowned celebrity: Mons is renowned for being the starting point of Vincent Van Gogh's painting career. His former home has now been turned into a museum open to all.

Top 5 activities

• Mundaneum, pioneer archive centre and museum celebrating knowledge and innovation.
• Belfry, a UNESCO Site symbolising the town’s rich history & architectural significance.
• Mons Memorial Museum, honouring the sacrifices of the past.
• CAP, a new cultural centre showcasing art masterpieces and contemporary cultural experiences.
• Collegiate Church, majestic architectural gem blending history and cultural heritage.

Top 2024 events

• Rodin. A modern renaissance - at CAP, from 13 April to 18 August.
• Doudou, a centuries-old UNESCO-recognised tradition blending folklore and festivity.
• Surrealism - at CAP, from 5 October, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the genre.

Find our more VISITWallonia.be/en/Mons

Namur

Namur is a charming city that serves as the capital of the region. The city's historical centre is characterized mainly by a pedestrian district filled with small boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The citadel is the centrepiece of the city, located on top of a hill, and can be accessed by cable car. From the citadel, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire city.

Renowned celebrity: Legend has it that Namur is the birthplace of beloved chips, also known as frites.

Top 5 activities

• Citadel of Namur and its tunnels, a historic fortress and labyrinthine underground network.
• Rops Museum, immersive journey into the enigmatic world of Félicien Rops.
• Zythology guided tour of town through breweries by ‘Hoptimalt – Beery Trip’.
• Pavillon, a new contemporary and vibrant cultural hub offering diverse digital exhibitions and experiences.
• La Capitainerie, a picturesque waterfront venue merging gastronomy and leisure with a river view.

Top 2024 events

• Namur en Mai – 9 to 11 May, a vibrant celebration of streets-music, arts and culture in the historical heart.
• Kikk festival – 24 to 27 October, a showcase of creativity & innovation with cutting edge art technology.
• Stilt jousting festival – September, a 600-year-old UNESCO recognised tradition celebrating stilt walking artistry and cultural heritage.

Find our more VISITWallonia.be/en/Namur

Dinant

Dinant is a beautiful town located just a short train ride away from Namur. It boasts stunning scenery, with three parallel streets nestled between a river and a cliff. At the top of the cliff, there is a citadel that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. In just 20 minutes, you can step back in time and enjoy all that this picturesque town has to offer.

Renowned celebrity: Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, is celebrated in this town with colourful saxophones representing different countries.

Top 5 activities :

• House of Sax, a tribute to Adolphe Sax’s musical legacy.
• Citadel of Dinant, a historic fortress perched atop a majestic cliff offering panoramic views.
• Maison Leffe, a haven for beer enthusiasts offering a journey through heritage & flavours of Leffe brews.
• Brasserie Caracole, crafting unique ales in old copper tanks heated by wood fire (unique in the world).
• Dinant Evasion, for thrilling outdoor experiences from scenic river cruises to kayak adventures.

Top 2024 events

• Jazzy Sundays - every Sunday (July – August)
• Bathtub regatta – 15 August, a fun aquatic spectacle where homemade vessels made of bathtubs race on the river Meuse.
• Jazz festival – 26 to 28 July, harmonising historic contemporary rhythms.

Find our more VISITWallonia.be/en/Dinant

Liege

The city of Liege is a lively student city that is often described as a 'city that never sleeps'. The Carré district is particularly known for its vibrant nightlife, where partygoers can dance the night away. Additionally, the city is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, with Liégeois meatballs being a local speciality. Another must-try is Pèkèt, a local liquor that can be enjoyed at Maison du Peket. However, the city is not just about partying and indulging in food and drinks. The historical centre of Liege boasts impressive architecture, rich history and culture. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the cathedral, collegiate, church, and Prince-Bishops Square, as well as numerous museums.

Renowned celebrity: George Simenon, the author of the famous character detective Maigret, there’s even a dedicated itinerary that allows visitors to discover his life in the city.

Top 5 activities

• Boverie, a cultural oasis where art and nature converge.
• Guillemins train station, a breathtaking architectural marvel with an exhibition centre.
• Gaufre saperlipopette, a whimsical culinary gem serving up innovative famous waffles.
• Churches, architectural wonders steeped in history through centuries or religious heritage.
• Mountain of Bueren, an iconic stairway offering a scenic ascent and a symbol of Liege’s historic charm.

Top 2024 events :

• First ever Wallonia Pride – 23 to 25 August.
• Beer Marathon - 12 May, a 42 km race with hoppy stops.
• Paul Delvaux – from 4 October, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Surrealism.

Find our more VISITWallonia.be/en/Liege

We have more interesting destinations accessible by train. Don’t miss out on Tournai (once owned by England under the reign of Henry VIII) or Waterloo for a tour of Wellington’s famous battlefields.

• Have a look: VISITWallonia.be/destinations

Press contact Maxime Weemans - 02075310390 -  maxime.weemans@visitwallonia.be

Press images : https://media.visitwallonia.be/ - VISITWallonia.be